Visas and Residency Options for Foreign Entrepreneurs in Argentina

Starting a business or investing in Argentina requires the appropriate visa or residency status. With recent economic reforms and a renewed pro-investment environment, Argentina has become an increasingly attractive destination for foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and executives. Below is a clear and practical guide to the main visa and residency options available for doing business legally in Argentina, and how we support you throughout the process.

1. Business Visitor Visa – Short-Term Business Activities

The Business Visitor Visa is designed for foreign nationals traveling to Argentina for short-term business purposes such as meetings, negotiations, market research, attending conferences, or exploring investment opportunities. This visa does not allow local employment or long-term residence, but it is ideal for entrepreneurs in the initial stages of evaluating the Argentine market or preparing company formation.

2. Temporary Residence for Investors

Foreign investors who make a qualifying investment in Argentina may apply for temporary residence as investors. This includes capital contributions to Argentine companies or other approved productive investments. Applicants must demonstrate the legal origin of funds and provide documentation proving the investment has been made or is in the process of being executed.

Temporary residence is usually granted for one year and can be renewed as long as the investment remains active and compliant.

3. Temporary Residence Through Company Formation or Executive Role

Entrepreneurs who incorporate a company in Argentina and are appointed as directors, managers, or legal representatives may apply for temporary residence based on their corporate role. This option is commonly used by founders and executives relocating to oversee local operations.

Required documentation typically includes company bylaws, proof of appointment, tax registration, and evidence of business activity. Once approved, this residence allows you to live and conduct business legally in Argentina.

4. Permanent Residence in Argentina

Permanent residence is available to foreign nationals who have held temporary residence for a qualifying period, generally two to three consecutive years depending on the category. Permanent residents may live and work in Argentina indefinitely without the need for renewals.

Permanent residence also opens the path to Argentine citizenship after meeting residency and physical presence requirements.

5. General Visa and Residency Requirements

While requirements vary depending on the visa or residence category, most applications include:

A valid passport
Criminal background certificate from the country of origin
Proof of investment or company participation
Company incorporation and tax registration documents
Proof of local address in Argentina
Health insurance coverage
Evidence of legal entry and stay

All applications are processed before the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones, the official body responsible for immigration and residency matters.

6. Maintaining Status and Transitioning to Permanent Residency

Temporary residents must maintain the business activity or investment that supports their residence and comply with physical presence requirements. Once eligibility conditions are met, they may apply for permanent residence, securing long-term legal stability and flexibility for business and personal purposes.

How We Help You Secure Your Visa and Residency in Argentina

At Argentina Corporate, we simplify the entire visa and residency process for foreign entrepreneurs and investors. Our team assists you in selecting the most suitable visa or residence category, preparing and validating documentation, coordinating company formation when required, and managing submissions before the immigration authorities. We ensure your application is fully compliant, efficient, and aligned with your business strategy, so you can focus on growing your operations while we handle the legal and regulatory process.